As a theatre student at the University of Oregon, I frequently heard Professor Robert Barton say, “You don’t choose a life in the theatre; a life in the theatre chooses you.” I have found this perspective to be applicable to the pursuit of any number of artistic careers (many of which I have explored, at one time or another).

Every living being on this planet possesses some level of creative ability and each being is moved to express it to some degree. Yet not everyone can be a dancer, a designer, a filmmaker or an actor. To daily tap into one’s source of creativity is no easy task and requires training, drive, discipline, and experience. That being said, it is evident I have devoted a greater part of my life to refining my ability to access that creative source, ultimately becoming a highly motivated and intensely disciplined designer.

Through my varied academic career, I discovered I possess that rare ability to successfully communicate my ideas to not only individuals but also large groups of people - people from varied ages and cultural backgrounds. After a lifetime devoted to the exploration of popular and classical imagery, the highbrow and lowbrow of our culture, I have developed a keen sensitivity for pattern recognition in imagery and the ability to view all media in a critical way. Most of all, I found I have a rare gift for audience empathy and can sense their desires and motivations, ultimately translating them into a cogent piece of work.

Present and of late my combined experiences in the arts have reached a point of coalescence (but clearly not limited to) in Graphic Design. My ability to frame images on stage readily translated into the creative skills required to design, construct, and define the structure and content of a graphic project.

Barbara Sher once wrote, “What you love is what you are gifted at. Only love will give you the drive to stick to something until you develop your gift.” My gifts are always evolving and my enthusiasm for honing them has never flagged. I can say with confidence that this is more than evident in the work found within this portfolio.

Thank you for your kind consideration.

Cole Hornaday